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Video Analysis: Max Staver

Written byDaniel Thompson, May 25, 2013, 0 Comments,

One of the most debated recruits of the 2013 cycle was Brentwood, TN quarterback Max Staver. There was a fierce debate on whether the 6-foot-5, 235-pound prospect would stay at quarterback or move to a position, like, tight end. Message Board scouts broke down every motion, every play, and every statistic to conclude hardline opinions on Staver and his ability. Some were impressed, some not.

Some immediately gave Staver the back-up job; some thought he would be better served backing up Colin Thompson; some even wrote off Staver as a prospect worthy of a scholarship offer to the University of Florida. Staver was also involved in some drama regarding the commitment 5-star cornerback Jalen Ramsey, a teammate of his.

However, none of the Message Board scouts were there on June 16th, 2012 when Staver tried out for a scholarship opportunity in front of offensive coordinator Brent Pease. Staver committed on June 18th, 2012.

As a senior, Staver threw for 1,916 yards with a 72% completion rate. Staver, also, accounted for seven touchdowns and eight interceptions.

What does the tape on Staver say? Why are there such differing opinions on the quarterback?

On tape, you notice Staver’s great size – a tall quarterback that can see over the offensive line and has some solid weight on his frame. For a pocket passing quarterback, you are looking for someone who does not need to move around in the pocket to see open receivers and on-coming rushers, that is exactly what Staver brings to the table. Staver’s size makes him a bit of a challenge to tackle and defenders will need to deliver a solid hit to bring Staver down.
Staver does have some ability to be mobile and is certainly not slow, but he likely won’t be asked to do much outside of the pocket – similar to Sam Bradford in that regard.

Staver has a solid arm and good accuracy. Staver showed at the Atlanta “Elite 11” and on game film that he can make pinpoint passes at both long and short distances. He shows that he knows how to lead wide receivers, deliver the ball over the shoulder or at the numbers, and consistently deliver zip on short passes. These are all good traits that are fundamental and can be difficult to teach those who cannot do that consistently at his age.

Staver seems to make good reads, understands routes, and makes solid progressions throughout his tape. He will need to make slightly quicker progressions at the next level, but that comes with coaching.

Staver needs to work on his footwork a bit and will need a year or two of solid coaching to improve his mechanics with his throwing motion. Currently, Staver drives all power from his arm and none from his legs. Staver will need to bring his arm up and follow through more with his shoulder, hips, and legs, and improve his slightly unnatural motion.

I see a capable quarterback that can play in the Southeastern Conference. Staver will need a few years to develop, but Florida does not need Staver to come in right away ready to play. I am bullish on Staver’s capabilities.

About Daniel Thompson

Dan Thompson is a 2010 graduate of the University Florida, graduating with a degree in Economics and a degree in Political Science. During this time at UF, Dan worked three years for the Florida Gator Football team as a recruiting ambassador. Dan dealt daily with prospects, NCAA guidelines, and coaching staff. Dan was also involved in Florida Blue Key, Student Government and Greek Life. Currently, Dan works as an Executive Head Hunter for a Tampa-based company. Dan enjoys golfing, country music, gin, travel, oysters, and a medium-rare steak. Dan has previously covered the Gators extensively on BourbonMeyer.com; on Twitter @DK_Thompson; and as the administrator of TheGatorsDaily.com.

One of the most debated recruits of the 2013 cycle was Brentwood, TN quarterback Max Staver. There was a fierce debate on whether the 6-foot-5, 235-pound prospect would stay at quarterback or move to a position, like, tight end. Message Board scouts broke down every motion, every play, and every statistic to conclude hardline opinions on Staver and his ability. Some were impressed, some not.

Some immediately gave Staver the back-up job; some thought he would be better served backing up Colin Thompson; some even wrote off Staver as a prospect worthy of a scholarship offer to the University of Florida. Staver was also involved in some drama regarding the commitment 5-star cornerback Jalen Ramsey, a teammate of his.

However, none of the Message Board scouts were there on June 16th, 2012 when Staver tried out for a scholarship opportunity in front of offensive coordinator Brent Pease. Staver committed on June 18th, 2012.

As a senior, Staver threw for 1,916 yards with a 72% completion rate. Staver, also, accounted for seven touchdowns and eight interceptions.

What does the tape on Staver say? Why are there such differing opinions on the quarterback?

On tape, you notice Staver’s great size – a tall quarterback that can see over the offensive line and has some solid weight on his frame. For a pocket passing quarterback, you are looking for someone who does not need to move around in the pocket to see open receivers and on-coming rushers, that is exactly what Staver brings to the table. Staver’s size makes him a bit of a challenge to tackle and defenders will need to deliver a solid hit to bring Staver down.
Staver does have some ability to be mobile and is certainly not slow, but he likely won’t be asked to do much outside of the pocket – similar to Sam Bradford in that regard.

Staver has a solid arm and good accuracy. Staver showed at the Atlanta “Elite 11” and on game film that he can make pinpoint passes at both long and short distances. He shows that he knows how to lead wide receivers, deliver the ball over the shoulder or at the numbers, and consistently deliver zip on short passes. These are all good traits that are fundamental and can be difficult to teach those who cannot do that consistently at his age.

Staver seems to make good reads, understands routes, and makes solid progressions throughout his tape. He will need to make slightly quicker progressions at the next level, but that comes with coaching.

Staver needs to work on his footwork a bit and will need a year or two of solid coaching to improve his mechanics with his throwing motion. Currently, Staver drives all power from his arm and none from his legs. Staver will need to bring his arm up and follow through more with his shoulder, hips, and legs, and improve his slightly unnatural motion.

I see a capable quarterback that can play in the Southeastern Conference. Staver will need a few years to develop, but Florida does not need Staver to come in right away ready to play. I am bullish on Staver’s capabilities.

Daniel ThompsonDanielThompsondkthompson7@gmail.comAuthorDan Thompson is a 2010 graduate of the University Florida, graduating with a degree in Economics and a degree in Political Science. During this time at UF, Dan worked three years for the Florida Gator Football team as a recruiting ambassador. Dan dealt daily with prospects, NCAA guidelines, and coaching staff. Dan was also involved in Florida Blue Key, Student Government and Greek Life. Currently, Dan works as an Executive Head Hunter for a Tampa-based company. Dan enjoys golfing, country music, gin, travel, oysters, and a medium-rare steak. Dan has previously covered the Gators extensively on BourbonMeyer.com; on Twitter @DK_Thompson; and as the administrator of TheGatorsDaily.com.GatorCountry.com